Causes

The hepatitis A virus, which causes the infection, usually is spread when a person ingests even tiny amounts of contaminated fecal matter. The hepatitis A virus infects liver cells and causes inflammation. The inflammation can impair liver function and cause other signs and symptoms of hepatitis A.

Hepatitis A virus can be transmitted several ways, such as:

Eating food handled by someone with the virus who doesn't thoroughly wash his or her hands after using the toilet.Drinking contaminated water.Eating raw shellfish from water polluted with sewage.Being in close contact with a person who's infected — even if that person has no signs or symptoms.Having sex with someone who has the virus.

Immune Cells involved in the immune response

T-cells are in the immune response.

How does it replicate

Only goes through the lytic cycle.

The Lytic cycle steps:

1.Virus attaches to the host cell and injects its DNA.

2.Viral DNA circularizes(non exposed DNA ends)

3. New viral DNA and proteins are synthesized and assembled

4.Cell lyses(bursts) releasing viruses.

Treatment

Hepatitis A can be treated by rest and hydration, the liver will clear up the virus on its own. Avoid alcohol and fatty foods.

Prevention

The hepatitis A vaccine can prevent infection with the virus. The hepatitis A vaccine is typically given in two doses — initial vaccination followed by a booster shot six months later.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following individuals receive a hepatitis A vaccine:All children at age 1, or older children who didn't receive the vaccine at age 1Laboratory workers who may come in contact with hepatitis AMen who have sex with menPeople planning travel to areas of the world with high rates of hepatitis APeople who use illegal drugs, injected and noninjectedPeople who receive treatment with clotting-factor concentratesPeople with chronic liver diseaseIf you're concerned about your risk of hepatitis A, ask your doctor if you should be vaccinated.

Follow safety precautions when traveling

If you're traveling in regions where hepatitis A outbreaks occur, peel and wash all fresh fruits and vegetables yourself and avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish. Drink bottled water and use it when brushing your teeth. Don't drink beverages of unknown purity, with or without ice. If bottled water isn't available, boil tap water before drinking it.